Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for OT Technician Roles – 2025

Preparing for an OT technician job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and experience working in the operating room. Whether you’re applying for a role in a hospital, clinic, or surgical center, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. What inspired you to become an OT technician?
  A: I have always been fascinated by the medical field and wanted to contribute to patient care in a meaningful way. The combination of technical skills and hands-on patient care in OT seemed like the perfect fit for me.
• 2. Can you walk us through your experience working as an OT technician?
  A: After completing my training, I worked at a large hospital for 3 years, where I gained experience in a variety of surgeries, including orthopedic, general, and gynecological procedures. I then moved to a smaller surgical center to expand my skills and have been there for the past 2 years.
• 3. How do you handle stressful situations in the operating room?
  A: I have developed a calm and focused attitude through years of experience in the OR. I prioritize communication and teamwork, and I am able to remain focused and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
• 4. How do you ensure patient safety during surgeries?
  A: Patient safety is my top priority, and I adhere strictly to all protocols and safety measures. I also pay close attention to any changes in the patient's vitals or anesthesia, and communicate immediately with the surgical team if any concerns arise.
• 5. How do you maintain sterilization standards in the operating room?
  A: Sterilization is crucial in the OR, and I follow all established protocols and guidelines to ensure a sterile environment. I also regularly check and maintain equipment and supplies, and properly dispose of any contaminated items.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What types of surgeries and procedures are you experienced in?
  A: I have experience in a wide range of surgeries, including orthopedics, general, gynecological, and ophthalmological procedures. I have also assisted in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.
• 7. How do you prepare the operating room and ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are available for a surgery?
  A: I follow a detailed checklist, double-checking that all designated instruments and supplies are available, properly sterilized, and in good working condition. I also make sure the operating table is set up correctly and all necessary equipment, such as anesthesia and monitors, are functioning properly.
• 8. What knowledge do you have of different types of surgical instruments and equipment?
  A: I have extensive knowledge of a variety of surgical instruments, including their uses and proper sterilization techniques. I am also skilled in setting up and operating equipment such as laparoscopic towers, cauteries, and tourniquets.
• 9. Walk us through your experience with patient positioning during surgeries.
  A: I have experience in safely positioning patients for a variety of surgeries, using proper techniques and equipment to ensure the patient's comfort and safety. I also closely monitor the patient's vitals and position adjustments as needed throughout the surgery.
• 10. How do you troubleshoot equipment malfunctions during a surgery?
  A: I am trained to troubleshoot and resolve equipment malfunctions quickly and safely. If I am unable to fix the issue myself, I quickly communicate with the surgical team and follow established protocols to ensure patient safety and minimal disruption to the surgery.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Tell us about a time when you had to handle a difficult patient in the OR.
  A: I had a patient who was very nervous about their surgery and was having a hard time staying still on the operating table. I took some extra time to speak with them and reassure them, and also made sure to communicate with the surgeon to adjust the length of the procedure to minimize their discomfort.
• 12. Give an example of when you had to work with a difficult team member in the OR.
  A: While assisting in a complicated surgery, there was a misunderstanding between myself and a surgical nurse, causing some tension between us. I immediately took a moment to address the issue, and we were able to quickly resolve it and continue working together seamlessly.
• 13. Can you tell us about a time when you had to think on your feet in the operating room?
  A: During a routine surgery, the patient suddenly experienced a rare allergic reaction to the anesthesia. I acted quickly to communicate with the anesthesiologist and assist in stabilizing the patient. Thanks to our teamwork and quick thinking, the patient was able to recover fully.
• 14. How do you handle multiple surgeries and changing priorities in a fast-paced environment like the OR?
  A: In a fast-paced environment like the OR, I prioritize communication with the surgical team and staying organized. I have learned to be flexible and adjust priorities as needed while staying focused on the task at hand.
• 15. Tell us about a successful outcome you achieved during a complex surgery.
  A: One of the most complex surgeries I was involved in was a robotic-assisted hysterectomy. I made sure to thoroughly review the equipment and procedures beforehand and worked closely with the surgeon and other team members throughout the surgery. The patient had an excellent outcome, and I was commended for my expertise and support during the procedure.

Situational Questions

• 16. What would you do if you noticed a potential contamination in the operating room?
  A: I would immediately stop the procedure and communicate with the surgical team, following proper protocols for contamination prevention and control. I would then ensure that all necessary steps are taken to maintain a sterile environment for patient safety.
• 17. How would you handle a situation where a surgical instrument is missing during a surgery?
  A: I would first check with my colleagues and review the inventory to see if the instrument was misplaced. If it cannot be found, I would quickly communicate with the surgical team and inquire about a backup instrument or alternative procedures.
• 18. What steps would you take to ensure patient confidentiality in the operating room?
  A: Patient confidentiality is crucial in the OR, and I take all necessary measures to maintain it. This includes restricting access to the operating room, properly disposing of patient information, and only discussing patient information with authorized team members.
• 19. How would you handle a situation where a patient's vitals suddenly become unstable during a surgery?
  A: I would immediately communicate with the surgical team and assist in stabilizing the patient. This may include administering emergency medication, adjusting anesthesia, or taking other necessary measures to ensure patient safety.
• 20. What would you do if there was an emergency in the operating room and you were the only OT technician present?
  A: In case of an emergency, I would call for assistance immediately and follow established protocols. I am trained to handle many different emergencies on my own, but I know when to call for help and prioritize the patient's needs at all times.